The National Hockey
League has focused on combating cancer and
introducing the game of hockey to diverse ethnic groups. Hockey
Fights Cancer, a joint initiative founded by the NHL and NHL Player's
Association in December 1998. Though Hockey Fights Cancer, the NHL raises
money and awareness. Hockey
All Star Kids Foundation, a program funded by the NHL and NHL Player's
Association, started in October 1999. This foundation links the NHL will
young victims of cancer and other diseases.

With hockey, being
predominately a North American sport, the NHL founded the NHL
Diversity Task Force to introduce hockey to children with diverse
ethnic backgrounds. This non-profit organization assists local youth programs
in teaching hockey and life skills to disadvantaged girls and boys of
all ages. NHL also provides grants to help youth hockey organizations
throughout the world. The NHL
A.S.S.I.S.T. grant program has been implemented to help defray the
costs of equipment, ice time and travel expenses. Each year, up to a total
of $100,000 USD is donated by the NHL for this grant.